Note to editors: Please find attached English and Afrikaans soundbites by Cllr René Steyn.
The DA is extremely concerned about the alarming and ongoing sewerage crisis in Welkom.
Welkom residents of Welkom have been enduring overflowing and malfunctioning sewerage systems for years now, resulting in untenable stench, unsanitary conditions, and health risks that have reached intolerable levels. Despite our repeated appeals and reports to the municipality, there has been a complete lack of urgency and an inadequate response.
The municipality’s failure to prioritise the sewerage crisis demonstrates a complete disregard for the well-being and dignity of its residents. The lack of proper infrastructure maintenance, insufficient investment in upgrades, and a lack of regular monitoring have contributed to this dire situation. It is evident that the municipality has neglected its responsibility to provide essential services and maintain basic living standards.
The absence of effective communication and transparency, along with the deliberate exclusion of councillors from the process, further exacerbates residents’ frustration and anger and erodes trust. Residents are left uninformed and unaware of the municipality’s plans, progress, or timelines for resolving the sewerage crisis, creating an atmosphere of uncertainty and despair.
The DA demands immediate action from the municipality to address these issues. It is crucial that the municipality allocates the necessary resources, expertise, and manpower to resolve the issue promptly. The health and well-being of our community are at stake, and any further delays or inadequate measures will not be tolerated. We will continue to conduct oversight of the affected area to determine the scale of the crisis. The combined report will be sent to the Provincial Legislature where our portfolio members will continue the highlight the municipalities’ mismanagement.
The municipality must establish an open line of communication with councillors and residents, providing regular updates on progress, steps being taken, and projected timelines for resolution.
Residents deserve to be informed and have a voice in decision-making that directly impacts their lives.